Perfect Fit: Choosing the Right Crate Size for Your Dog

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dog in crate; choosing the right crate size for your dog

Photo: Dmitry Markov152 / Shutterstock

Dog crates have many purposes. They should be a safe space that your pet loves, providing them a quiet place to settle if they want or need to be left alone. They can also provide a safe way to confine your pup for travel, after surgery, or to rest due to an injury.

As important as crates are, it's equally as important to ensure that your dog's crate correctly accommodates their size. To walk us through the importance of a correctly sized crate and how to measure your dog for a crate, we talked to behavior specialist Lauren Novack, ACDBC, KPA-CTP, FPPE, from Behavior Vets NYC.

The Dos and Don'ts of Crate Training a Puppy

What Size Crate Do I Need for My Dog?

"Each dog should have their own crate that is big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably," says Novack, who is also a member of the Daily Paws Advisory Board. "Puppies should not have enough space to pee in one corner and curl up in another corner." A crate should be cozy, but also limit their access to the environment.

What could happen if your dog's crate is too big? "If the crate is too big, your pup may have accidents or instead of being on crate rest, spend their time standing instead of lying down and healing," Novack says.

If your dog's crate is too small, they will be cramped. "That's not fair," Novack says. "It should be a place they love and want to be in when it's time to rest."

Yeji Kim

Also consider whether your dog will get bigger. Although puppies need a smaller space right now, they'll need more room as they grow. If growing is in your dog's future, purchase a larger crate with divider panels. Dividers can be adjusted as your puppy grows into the crate.

How to Measure Your Dog for a Crate the Right Way

Novack suggests that in a properly sized crate, your pup should be able to lie down on their side. Therefore, to match your dog's measurements to a crate's dimensions, you'll need to measure the length and height of your dog.

For their length, measure from your dog's nose to tail. When measuring the tail, add approximately 2-4 inches to the overall length, depending on their size. For their height, measure from the top of your dog's head to the ground. If your dog has naturally erect ears, measure from the tip of their ears.

Once you have these measurements, add 4 inches to the length and height to determine the correct crate size.

Dog Crate Size Guide

Now that you understand how to measure your dog for a crate, this chart shows general dimensions and breeds to reference when selecting a dog crate.

Yeji Kim

5 Types of Dog Crates to Choose From

Once you've measured your pup and determined what size crate they need, it's time to shop for the perfect crate for your individual dog. Here are some of our favorite options to choose from.